If you have a dough hook, let the mixer knead the dough for 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic, on medium speed. (You can also do this by hand, but it may take a little longer to knead).
Mix in the remaining 2 ½ cups whole-wheat flour, and add enough of the white flour to make a kneadable dough (it should still be fairly soft but still a little sticky.)
Add warm water, honey and melted butter. Mix on low speed until the ingredients are combined, then beat on medium speed for 3 minutes.
Combine 1 ½ cups whole-wheat flour, 1/2 cup white flour, the yeast and the salt in the bowl of a mixer.